Page 45 of Sinister Secrets

“Ask for access to Mr. Massey’s phone records and financials while you’re at it.”

I nod my understanding. “Is there anything else?”

“Just one thing.” He clears his throat, two spots of color rising high on his cheeks. “I couldn’t help noticing your attire, Agent Knox. I’d never tell any of my agents what to wear, but I’d be irresponsible if I didn’t say that I have my concerns that yours might make it harder for you to defend yourself in certain situations.”

It takes me several seconds before I manage to shut my mouth. This time, I’m the one to clear my throat. It takes every ounce of willpower I have to keep my voice calm as I speak, because I don’t know what kind of game he’s playing, but I want no part of it.

“You recommended that I soften my look, sir.” Even though I tried hard to temper my tone, it still comes out as a growl.

The serious, slightly uncomfortable look on his face cracks as he laughs. Anger burns beneath my skin.

“I’m sorry for the confusion, Agent Knox. Like I said, I’d never tell one of my agents what to wear. What I meant was your demeanor.”

“My demeanor?”

“Yes. You have a tendency to come off… how should I say this? Like you wouldn’t hesitate to tear someone to shreds with your bare hands if you had to.”

“I wouldn’t,” I say.

“And I wouldn’t want it any other way. But you don’t want a potential adversary knowing that. Sometimes, it’s useful to smile a bit. Let yourself be underestimated. It’s the best way to assure that you always have the upper hand.”

“Noted,” I say, standing to leave.

“Stay safe out there, Agent Knox. That’s a direct order.”

“Yes, sir.”

As I fill out the paperwork for the warrant, I can’t help wondering if he might have a point. Do I come off as too aggressive? Could that possibly be construed as distant and uncaring in my personal life? What about inconsiderate? I should have spoken with Jake before giving Chelsea the code to the door. It should have been a joint decision.

Making my way out of the building, I pull out my phone and text him to let him know that I’m just leaving the field office and might be a little late. My phone rings a few moments later, the sight of his name on the screen filling my belly with butterflies.

“Hi,” I say softly as I answer the call.

“Hey. I’m sorry about last night.”

“Me too.”

“I shouldn’t have responded like I did. It wasn’t your fault. I was just… frustrated.”

“Me too.” This time I say it on a dry laugh. “And I’ve been thinking. I’m going to ask her to leave. We can find her a temporary place to stay, but we need our privacy back.”

“No. Don’t.”

“Why not?”

“Because if you think she needs our help, then we’re doing the right thing by letting her stay.”

“You’re a sweet man, Jake Walker.”

“Sweet enough to earn a reward?”

“Definitely. I’ll see you soon.”

As I get in my car and start the engine, the band that’s been drawn tight around my chest all day vanishes. A smile spreads on my face—without feeling like I had to crush rock to do it. The man I love has faith in me. It’s time for me to have faith in myself.

CHAPTER 25

I’d already passed all the stores and entered the long, lonely stretch of the Tamiami on my way home when I decided I should cook something special for dinner, so hopefully I’ll be able to pull it off with what I have on hand. As soon as I’m inside the house, I kick my shoes off and head into the kitchen to take stock of the meal situation. I’m just getting ready to raid the freezer when I hear the door open.